Although they're slightly above your budget (after factoring in GST/PST/QST/HST), I highly recommend the Sennheiser MX375. Really nice bass and good soundstage, though the housings are on the large side when compared to entry level Sonys. That doesn't seem to bother me, though.

I'm gonna consider one of the Seinheiser MX ### ones as they keep coming up. Also there was another one I read about....Yuin PN3 or something? Would love to get a link where I can find info or comparisons on these because whenever I search them, I keep getting results with the newer earphones that go inside the ear canal.

I haven't tried the MDR-ED12, but I did own its predecessor, the MDR-ED238. The so-called "bass excite tip" does indeed go into the opening of the canal, and while it does increase upper bass response, the resulting sound is just muddy and lacks definition. Maybe the ED12 is better, but based on experience of the previous model, I doubt it'll be better than the EarPods.

Built-in mics on earbuds are surprisingly hard to come by. I know that AKG has the K318, but I haven't heard it. There's also the Skullcandy Fix Bud (yes, I know...), which is surprisingly good (though lighter on bass), especially if you can grab one for under $20.